I’m new to the real estate process.  How can you help to make sure I understand what’s going on?

First we will evaluate your home’s market value and I will make recommendations for putting your best foot forward and implement my professional 10-step marketing plan designed to provide the maximum exposure necessary to sell quickly and for top dollar.  Now that we have the home ready for showings, we analysis and choose the best offers so we can transition into a home and lifestyle more suited to your current needs.

 

What makes you different from the other Realtors in your market?

I specialize in stress-free guidance for families transitioning into a new phase of life or settling an estate.  I first listen to your goals, then personalize my system to guide us through ensuring best value and terms for your unique situation. I have 17 Years of real estate experience with over 1,000 happy customers.  I’m the author of 7 real estate books focused on helping clients transition into their ideal home and lifestyle. And most importantly, I believe buying or selling a home is more than a transaction...it’s a transition.

 

Which customers are you best suited to help?

I specialize in helping families in transition into a new phase of life or settling an estate, to understand their options and obtain the most value for their unique situation.  My diplomatic can-do personality allows me to transition my customers through any situation like inherited, vacant or tenant occupied homes, divorce situations, or the need to sell before we can buy process smoothly.

 

How and why did you get in to real estate?

First, real estate is an entrepreneurial business, and my mindset (If it is to be, it’s up to me) played a huge part in my decision to pursue this career.  In addition, my Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing was also a perfect fit. I was attracted immediately to the idea of helping people effectively market their home, or locate the perfect home for their transition. My can-do personality allows me to easily deliver more than is expected, which is another of my signature traits.

 

 I’ve had a negative experience in the past.  Please tell me how you will keep me informed about the process and how often I’ll get those updates.

First, I’m saddened to hear that you’ve had a bad experience.  I have found that the solution for that often begins with knowing and managing your expectations.  That’s why the first thing we’ll do is discuss these important topics:

• Your preference of communication

• How often we will communicate

• How quickly you can expect a return call, email or text

• What type of information and updates you expect to receive regularly

• Exactly what outcome you’re seeking (so we don’t waste your time)

• What you don’t want (this is as important as what you do want)

• For sellers--The listing price (we’ll determine what’s necessary to get it sold fast and at full value)

• For buyers--The options that best fit your needs (and your pre-approved purchase price)

• Any other factors about your needs or the transaction that are essential 

I believe in transparent communication and sharing everything that’s going on.  I will not assume you know every part of the process, so I take the time to inform and educate as we go, so you never feel ‘left out’ of the conversation. The worst feeling is not knowing what’s going on at all with your own transaction.

 

Why do I need a real estate agent at all?  Can’t I buy or sell a home myself?

While on the surface, handling a real estate transaction might seem like a simple task, there are actually many moving parts to the process, and they don’t always go smoothly.  There are several critical things that I offer which can make a huge difference. 

First, I have direct access to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), and we post your listing which is visible to every agent in the area with potential buyers who are looking for a home like yours. Most agents will bring you a ready, willing and pre-qualified buyer that has been to a lender and knows they can purchase your home.

Second, when you attempt to sell your home yourself, anytime you leave to go to work, or go out of town, you essentially take your home off the market.  It interrupts the showing process. Even when you have a family member or friend to show it for you, they cannot always meet the expectations of your potential buyers and their schedules.  When you list with me, I place a lock box on the door that is accessible to other agents and they can show even when you're away. They are licensed professionals, and the lock box is on a computer system that will notify me if it has been opened. That way, I will know who to ask for feedback.

Third, selling a home is stressful even when you are not face to face with the buyer.  When you work directly with the buyer (without an agent), it becomes more stressful. I know this from years of experience.  

Fourth, if you’re purchasing a home, working with a Buyer’s Agent actually doesn’t cost you a dime.  There is only one commission in any transaction, and the seller pays that commission. The seller’s agent usually receives that commission, UNLESS there is a buyer’s agent, in which case the seller’s agent must split that commission with the buyer’s agent.  

Finally, there are legal issues in any real estate transaction that can make or break the deal.  I am trained to recognize and handle those quickly and correctly. Most people don’t even know those issues exist until it’s too late.  You want someone to help you make the best decision, and to represent you while keeping the emotion under wraps, getting the job done and keeping you in a stress free environment.  The same scenarios exist on both the buyer's and seller's side.